Speed limit increased to 70 mph on rural interstates

The Virginia Department of Transportation is increasing the maximum speed limit to 70 miles per hour on interstates in Virginia’s less populated areas.

The change will result in a speed-limit increase for 61 percent of Virginia’s 1,119 miles of interstate.

“The increase in the speed limit from 65 to 70 mph in rural and less populated areas of the state will help Virginians arrive at their destinations quicker and safer and will speed the delivery of goods and services throughout the commonwealth,” Gov. Bob McDonnell said in a statement.